I began writing for one purpose: To entertain. I love creating worlds and characters and seeing other readers get immersed in my vision. With my newly-released first novel, A Cold Blooded Rain, I set out to tell a fun, entertaining story. Unfortunately, the book also centers on the brutal murder of a young woman. Max Floyd, the main character, is touched deeply by the news of her death and sets out to solve the crime.

But while my book is meant to entertain, the issue at the heart of the matter is very real. According to care.org’s website, “one BILLION women will be victims of violence in their lifetime.” That’s thirteen percent of the planet’s population! Also, “in some countries, up to 7 out of 10 women are beaten, raped, abused or mutilated.” Seventy percent of women in some countries!

Despite portraying a violent act against a woman to drive my story, writing it was, personally, quite difficult for me at times. Over the course of writing, revising, and editing, I often found myself affected while working on those parts of the story. With that in mind, I thought of a way I could show my support for the victims in the real world—by supporting an organization working to help end violence against women.

Beginning with a December 27th post on Twitter and Facebook, I’ve pledged to donate 10% of the proceeds from the sale of my book to care.org’s work to end violence against women. This applies to BOTH versions of the book, paperback and on Kindle, and will continue for an indefinite period of time. Please note that I am not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Care.org other than through my personal donations.

While a vicious act against a FICTIONAL character of my own creation ended up having an impact on me, there are way too many REAL people—REAL women—out there experiencing REAL violence. Over the years, writing has brought me many new insights on many different areas of life. It is my sincere hope that my pledge will give others their own insights and ideas on finding ways they can help others.